217. JULIEN RASQUINET ~ the perfumer trained to be a champion.

Julien Rasquinet, Senior Perfumer at CPL Aromas, had an incredibly fortuitous path to perfumery, and it began with a chance meeting at an airport. Today, he is one of the most prolific and successful perfumers of all time, and when you hear his story, you'll understand why. We chat about creating the perfect rose, where AI falls short, his least favorite kind of client briefs, the behind-the-scenes stories of your (my) fave perfumes, and how following his nose across the world led him to exactly where he was meant to be [our perfume shelves!]. SOTD: Veronique Gabai Noire de Mai FRAG MENTIONED: Nishane Thorns become Roses, Estée Lauder Pleasures, Dior J’Adore, Davidoff Cool Water, BDK Tabac Rose, Naomi Goodsir: Iris Cendre, Bois d’Ascese, Cuir Velours; Creed Royal Oud SMELL CLUB: summerinabottle.eventbrite.com BOOK A SCENT STYLING SESSION: stele.nyc/products/scent-styling-emma-vernon EDITOR NOTE: In 2025, Perfumer/Founder Maya Njie released a perfume called Aethi Opum, inspired by her own Gambian and Senegalese roots, with a gowé accord. The idea of gowé was something she had discussed with CPL Aromas a few years prior.